Subclauses 3.8.2.1.(3)(m)(ii) to (iv) are intended to exempt certain storeys other than the entrance level - including basements and mezzanines that are less than 600 m2 in floor area or 100 m2 or less in floor area in assembly occupancies, that are self-contained, or that contain the same facilities as the entrance level - from the requirement to have a barrier-free path of travel.

Examples of buildings and spaces to which this exemption may apply are small office buildings with additional workspaces on the second storey and small restaurants with a second storey that contains only additional seating. However, if a restaurant’s only washrooms are in the basement, they must have a barrier-free path of travel as they are an integral part of the principal function of the first storey. Similarly, staff lunchrooms and washrooms are also integral to the principal function of a restaurant; as such, if they are located in a floor area such as a second storey, basement or mezzanine that contains essential facilities as described in Subclause 3.8.2.1.(3)(m)(iii), they must have a barrier-free path of travel for potential employees with disabilities.

Where a building contains more than one floor level, other than the entrance level, each floor level should be considered individually when determining the floor area for the purposes of Subclauses 3.8.2.1.(3)(m)(ii) and (iv). Mezzanines should be considered as a floor level other than the entrance level.